Monks Dyke Tennyson College in Mablethorpe marks 50 years

Head of School at the Mablethorpe campus, Paul Marsden, pictured with Mrs Bell and her granddaughter.

Published:17:25Friday 27 November 2015

Monks Dyke Tennyson College in Mablethorpe marked the 50th anniversary of secondary education in town amid intense speculation about its future.

The school was officially opened on November 18, 1965 as Tennyson Secondary School, named after the famous Lincolnshire poet, Alfred Lord Tennyson.

The opening marked Mablethorpe’s first provision of secondary education in the area.

The name Tennyson School was retained until 2012 when the school merged with Louth’s Monks Dyke Technology College, turning the site into Monks Dyke Tennyson College.

Last week, the school held two celebratory events to mark the anniversary.

On Wednesday (November 18) - the official day - a grand lunch was held in the hall for all students to get together to celebrate the milestone. Every student will also receive a commemorative key ring to mark the occasion, designed by a student in Year 7.

Paul Marsden, Head of School at the Mablethorpe campus, said: “It was great to have all of the students together to mark the school’s 50th anniversary and to celebrate secondary education in Mablethorpe.”

Pupils on the day were also joined by Mrs Bell and her granddaughter who joined in with the celebrations.

Mrs Bell, wife of Tony Bell, joined the school when it first opened as an art and geography teacher and then took on the role of ‘acting’ head for many years.

Friday (November 20) saw a second event for former pupils, teachers and members of the community. They had the chance to celebrate at the school with current pupils offering a guided tour of the facility.

There was also the opportunity to examine old newspaper cuttings and photographs which brought back many memories.

Mr Marsden added: “It was great to see a good turn out of people come up to the school to celebrate with us and it gave us a chance to give them a tour.

“Lots of memories came back and it was a great way for the school to mark 50 years.”

The celebrations went into the early evening and a special anniversary cake was also produced.

With 50 successful years of secondary education in Mablethorpe recorded, thoughts now turn to the future.

There is speculation the school will close, despite a growing campaign o keep it open.

The process - overseen by the County Council - is currently at the consultation stage.

A decision is expected early in 2016.

But all is being done behind the scenes to makes sure that secondary education continues on the coast for future generations.